GET INTO THE SPIRIT OF THE FESTIVAL! Remember, you are coming to drink beer! Some festival-goers will show their spirit with elaborate costumes, beer paraphernalia, or group T-shirts. The aforementioned pretzel necklace is both festive and a great conversation starter. Do talk to other people in line — you're with fellow beer lovers, after all! And above all else, talk to any brewers present. Many will be friendly and quite enlightening, especially for home brewers.

It should go without saying that no matter what precautions you've taken, you'll need to have arranged for a ride home or be prepared to cab it. If you follow this and the other guidelines, your next beer festival is sure to be a blast. With several great local festivals coming up this fall — including the Great International Beer Festival in Providence (on November 13) and the Belgian Beer Fest in Boston (November 5 and 6) — there is no shortage of chances to check one out for yourself!